08 Dec 2025 North Little Rock Chamber Leads coalition to relaunch Innovation Hub
NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with a coalition of local leaders, has established an advisory committee to ensure the continued operation and future growth of the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub — Central Arkansas’s longstanding makerspace, workforce development resource, and educational center.
Since opening in 2014, the Innovation Hub has played a critical role in advancing creativity, supporting entrepreneurs, and driving economic development throughout the region. With recent changes in operational oversight, the Chamber is stepping forward to spearhead a community-driven relaunch, supported by strategic fundraising.
Preserving a Proven Mission While Strengthening Regional Impact
The advisory committee is composed of leaders from the arts, business, technology, education, and nonprofit sectors—individuals deeply committed to sustaining and growing the Hub’s mission.
Their goal is to preserve the Hub’s core strengths—its staff, programs, and creative environment—while expanding educational and business-focused offerings that meet the needs of a modern workforce and entrepreneurial economy.
Enhanced programming will include:
- Hands-on maker and arts programs
- STEM and digital literacy initiatives
- Entrepreneurship and small-business development support
- Workforce Development
“The Innovation Hub has long been an engine for talent development and creative entrepreneurship in Central Arkansas, which will connect perfectly with the North Little Rock Chamber business community.” said Derrell Hartwick, president & CEO of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce. “Our commitment is to strengthen that engine by expanding pathways for innovation, workforce skills, and economic growth.”
Request for Asset Transfer to Support a Seamless Relaunch
In light of the North Little Rock Public Library System’s decision to cease operating the Hub, the advisory committee has formally requested that the Library Board transfer all equipment, tools, and educational resources to the community-led relaunch effort.
“These assets were funded and built for public benefit,” Hartwick said. “Transferring them ensures uninterrupted access for the thousands of students, creators, and entrepreneurs who depend on the Hub’s resources.”
Protecting a Major Community Investment
The committee has also initiated conversations with Winrock International, the building’s owner, to ensure that the facility continues to serve its intended purpose.
Millions of dollars in charitable contributions, federal grants, foundation support, and private donations made the Innovation Hub possible, turning the facility into a landmark for education, creativity, and development.
“This building represents a significant community investment, and its purpose is bigger than any single organization,” Hartwick said. “Our goal is to preserve that investment and ensure this facility continues to serve the people, businesses, and students who built its legacy.”
Community members, partners, and supporters can learn more and donate to the relaunch effort at zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/relaunch-the-hub.
